For over 20 years, I have been a resident of Ward 4, a place where I have raised my children, a place I am proud to call home and a community I love. That is why I am deeply disturbed with the re-election of Ward 4 Councillor Roger Lapworth—a man who pleaded guilty to criminal harassment in 2018.  https://www.insidehalton.com/news/municipal-elections/oakville-mayor-accused-of-supporting-councillor-charged-with-cutting-brakes-to-wifes-car/article_d00fcb44-1344-5f92-b0c2-8247e2c8c551.html He resigned from office following that scandal and although he served a probationary sentence, none of this was disclosed prior to our recent election by the news media for Oakville's current voters. Disturbingly, he has returned to public service without his past criminal actions resurfacing. This pattern not only highlights a troubling lack of moral compass but also underscores the privilege that comes with certain statuses, allowing individuals to bypass accountability.

Our town, known for its vibrant community and strong ethical standards, deserves better. Therefore, it is imperative that both our new Mayor, Jeff Knoll and the Town and Regional Council ask Roger Lapworth to resign. His past actions directly contradict the integrity and trust we should be able to place in our leaders.

Furthermore, it is time for the council to adhere to their own code of conduct and Key principles:  https://www.oakville.ca/town-hall/policies-procedures/council-code-of-conduct/ 

As stated in the code, Council should: "enhance public confidence that the town’s elected representatives operate from a base of integrity, justice, and courtesy." 
Key Principles
(i)"Members shall seek to serve the public interest by upholding both the letter and the spirit of the laws and policies established by the Federal and Provincial governments and Council.

(k) Members should endeavour to demonstrate the same commitment to ethical behaviour required by this Code in their capacity as private citizens, recognizing that actions taken by Members as private citizens may sometimes be interpreted as reflecting the Council and the town that they represent.

Transparency is a cornerstone of democracy, yet it seems our current system lacks essential safeguards that protect the electorate from potentially harmful leadership. We require criminal background checks for individuals volunteering with our children’s schools and community activities because we recognize the importance of safety, trust and accountability. Surely, those same principles of public trust and ethical responsibility should apply to those elected to represent our communities and entrusted with public resources and decision-making authority.

As citizens, we expect our leaders to be models of accountability and ethical conduct. They should not only follow legal requirements but also uphold the moral standards that they themselves preach in their own code of conduct.

This is not just a personal concern but a call to ensure all citizens of Oakville and Ward 4 live in a community governed by responsible and transparent leaders. Join me in advocating for this necessary change. Sign this petition to demand accountability and to protect the values that we hold dear in our beloved community.